Vintage Javanese Wayang Kulit Shadow Puppet (Broken Arm)

Wayang Kulit is a traditional form of shadow puppetry originating from Java (where our mother noted this one came from) and Bali in Indonesia. The puppets are made from intricately carved leather, often buffalo hide, and mounted on bamboo or wood sticks. Performers hold them between a light source and a screen, usually accompanied by a gamelan orchestra. 
 
We believe this was purchased in Java by the Burr sisters in 1935. This articulated puppet, which clearly has a broken arm, is not in the best condition. We believe it is older than our others as the paint is peeling, or more accurately chalking, off as also shown in photos.. 
 
H 23” including handles (17 1/4” puppet only) x L 8” with arms tucked in.
 
Disclaimer: We have tried to make sure colors shown in photos are representative of the real colors of each item. We have tried to identify all imperfections in descriptions, but we may have missed some. If you are unhappy with your purchase, let us know.